Gus Bilirakis

It was a pleasure to visit BayCare Hospital Wesley Chapel, connect with its dedicated employees, and learn more about the innovative work and advances in technology helping deliver precision medicine to patients. These tools support a more personalized approach to care, tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Thank you to the entire team for your commitment to improving lives and providing high-quality care to our community!

Happy Birthday to the United States Navy! Today, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the Sailors who defend our nation and protect freedom around the world. To all who serve, our Navy Veterans, and the families who stand beside them - thank you for your service and unwavering commitment to our country. We are grateful for all you do. Anchors Aweigh! 🇺🇸⚓

Happy Birthday to the United States Navy! Today, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of the Sailors who defend our nation and protect freedom around the world. To all who serve, our Navy Veterans, and the families who stand beside them - thank you for your service and unwavering commitment to our country. We are grateful for all you do. Anchors Aweigh! 🇺🇸⚓

I enjoyed hearing directly from local manufacturers at a recent roundtable I hosted with Senator Rick Scott. Their insights into the challenges and opportunities facing American manufacturing help guide our work to strengthen domestic production, support skilled workers, and create good-paying jobs. Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and ideas. I remain committed to advancing policies that help our manufacturers compete, innovate, and succeed right here in Tampa Bay!

WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12), joined by Representatives Raul Ruiz, M.D. (D-CA-25), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández (D-PR), have introduced the Puerto Rico Medicare Advantage Fairness Act. This bipartisan bill would correct a long-standing formula gap that underpays Medicare Advantage in Puerto Rico. How it works: Medicare Advantage plans receive a fixed monthly payment from the federal government for each senior they enroll. Part of that payment is based on the local cost of care, which is measured by the average geographic adjustment (AGA). Puerto Rico's AGA is much lower than it should be. The formula relies on spending in traditional Medicare (fee-for-service), but very few beneficiaries in Puerto Rico use fee-for-service, since most are enrolled in MA. Basing the AGA on such a small population understates what care actually costs on the island, and MA plans receive a lower benchmark payment for each senior as a result. This bill would set Puerto Rico's AGA equal to that of the U.S. Virgin Islands, a territory with similar socioeconomic circumstances, so that payments reflect the true cost of delivering care. The problem Over 680,000 Puerto Rico beneficiaries rely on Medicare Advantage, over 90 percent of all Medicare beneficiaries on the island. Puerto Rico receives about 40 percent less per beneficiary than the U.S. average. Benchmark rates run roughly 20 percent below those in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The payment gap has led to smaller provider networks and reduced benefits, and doctors and hospitals absorb lower reimbursements. This threatens the quality and availability of healthcare services in Puerto Rico. "Seniors deserve reliable access to the high-quality health care they have earned through Medicare, regardless of where they live," said Congressman Gus Bilirakis. "Medicare Advantage plays an important role in delivering care to beneficiaries across Puerto Rico, and we must ensure the program is funded fairly and sustainably so seniors can continue accessing the doctors, treatments, and benefits they rely upon. I'm proud to join Representatives Ruiz and Soto in introducing the bipartisan Puerto Rico Medicare Advantage Fairness Act to address longstanding disparities, strengthen access to care and provide greater stability for patients and providers." "As an emergency physician, I know that when care is out of reach, seniors pay the price," said Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. "Puerto Ricans pay into Medicare on the same terms as every American, yet their Medicare Advantage plans are paid about 40 percent less. That gap has shrunk provider networks, cut benefits, and strained doctors and hospitals. This bill is a targeted, common-sense fix. I thank Representatives Bilirakis and Soto and Resident Commissioner Hernández for working with me to give seniors the fair coverage they have earned." “I am proud to join Reps. Bilirakis and Ruiz in introducing the bipartisan Puerto Rico Medicare Advantage Fairness Act to make geographic adjustments to Medicare Advantage benchmarks in Puerto Rico to match those of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This takes us closer to achieving full parity between the Island and the mainland. Puerto Ricans are American citizens, and they deserve access to the same healthcare benefits as all Americans," said Congressman Darren Soto. “We are prioritizing the basics: ensuring that our seniors have access to the doctors and healthcare services they need. This year, we secured a significant increase in Medicare Advantage funding for Puerto Rico. Now, we are taking the next step to fix a longstanding funding disparity that has affected the Island for years,” said Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández. "I would like to thank my friend and former colleague, Gus Bilirakis, for introducing the Medicare Advantage Fairness Act in support of Medicare enrollees in Puerto Rico. Close to 680,000 Puerto Rico residents choose to receive their care through Medicare Advantage (MA), making it the preferred coverage option on the island. Yet MA rates in Puerto Rico are approximately 41% below the national average and 20% below those in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI). This bill proposes a fix that would adjust MA rates based on those in the USVI, providing a much-needed boost to our residents, health care sector, and economy. I look forward to continuing our work together in support of Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries in Puerto Rico and across our nation, " said Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González-Colón. The legislation would create a self-adjusting link: if the U.S. Virgin Islands' adjustment changes, Puerto Rico's would move with it. It is a targeted fix for a formula that has never reflected the true cost of care on the island.

On World Mental Health Day, we are reminded that mental health is an essential part of overall health - and seeking help is a sign of strength. I’m proud to champion bipartisan legislative efforts to reduce the stigma associated with seeking treatment, expand access to behavioral health services, and ensure patients and families have the support services they need. From early intervention to ongoing treatment and recovery, compassionate care should be within reach for everyone who needs it. I will continue working to break down barriers to care and strengthen support in our communities. Together, we can help ensure no one faces mental health challenges alone. #WorldMentalHealthDay

It was a pleasure to join the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce for a thoughtful discussion about economic development and expanding opportunities for local businesses and workers throughout our region. Hearing directly from our business community helps guide my efforts to strengthen our workforce and remove barriers to success. Thank you to everyone who shared their ideas and commitment to our region’s future!

I appreciated hearing directly from constituents at this month’s Take A Stand event in Pasco County. These conversations give residents an opportunity to bring issues and concerns to my attention, ask questions, and share their ideas. Listening to you helps guide my work in Congress and ensures your priorities remain front and center. Thank you to everyone who participated. I value your input and the opportunity to serve you! To sign up for the next Take A Stand event, contact my office at 727-232-2921.

October is Domestic Violence Prevention Month - a time to stand with survivors, honor those whose lives have been lost to domestic violence, and reaffirm our commitment to ending abuse in all its forms. No one should have to live in fear in their own home. We must continue working together to raise awareness, support survivors and their families, hold abusers accountable, and ensure those experiencing domestic violence can access the resources and services they need to find safety and rebuild their lives. This month, we also recognize the advocates, law enforcement officers, health care professionals and community organizations who work every day to protect and empower survivors. Together, we can help break the cycle of violence and build safer homes and stronger communities.

I enjoyed stopping by GTE Financial’s grand opening in New Port Richey last weekend! It was a pleasure to meet the team and celebrate their commitment to serving our community. Access to financial services helps families plan for the future and small businesses pursue their goals. Congratulations to everyone at GTE Financial, and best wishes for success in your new location!

The VA's recent policy announcement strengthening informed consent practices is an important step forward and advances several objectives of my bipartisan Written Informed Consent Act (H.R. 4837). Veterans deserve full transparency about the medications they are prescribed, including potential risks and alternatives, so they can make informed decisions about their health. I’m encouraged that our legislation helped spur action by the VA, but there is still more work to do. I continue to believe signed, informed consent should be required for all medication categories covered by our bill, and I will keep working to ensure Veterans receive the information and protections they deserve. 📷

Aripeka residents have waited far too long for a solution. I have been engaged with USPS since the hurricanes, pushing for answers and reliable mail service for this community. Their response to date has been unacceptable. Two years later, residents are still forced to travel to Hudson to retrieve their mail. They deserve a concrete plan and timely action. I will not stop pushing USPS for a solution that enables my constituents to have their mail delivered in Aripeka. This community deserves better. https://t.co/huK72icuRe

Seniors who have earned Medicare deserve reliable access to high-quality health care - regardless of where they live. Medicare Advantage plays a critical role in delivering care to seniors across Puerto Rico, yet longstanding disparities in the program can threaten the stability and access beneficiaries and providers depend on. That’s why I’m proud to join Representatives Raul Ruiz and Darren Soto in reintroducing the bipartisan Puerto Rico Medicare Advantage Fairness Act. Our bill will help address these disparities, strengthen access to care, and provide greater stability for Puerto Rico’s seniors and the doctors and health care providers who serve them. Where you live should never determine whether you can access the Medicare benefits you’ve earned.

Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up healthy, thrive and reach their full potential. On National Child Health Day, I’m proud of my record of working across the aisle to expand access to quality health care, strengthen pediatric research and improve outcomes for America’s children. Several bipartisan child health initiatives I’ve championed have become law, including the ACE Kids Act, the longest-ever reauthorization of the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act. But our work is far from finished. I’m continuing to advance bipartisan solutions that improve access to care, accelerate treatments and cures for childhood diseases, and give parents the resources they need to keep their children safe and healthy. Our children are our future, and I’ll keep fighting to ensure every child has the best possible start to a long, healthy and successful life.

Medicare and Medicaid fraud doesn’t just waste taxpayer dollars - it drains critical resources from the seniors, children, expectant mothers, and Americans with disabilities who rely on these programs. Our Energy & Commerce Committee investigation uncovered serious vulnerabilities that fraudsters are exploiting. That’s why I’m proud to co-sponsor this important program integrity package, which includes my bipartisan Medicaid RAC Improvement Act. My bill strengthens oversight of state Medicaid Recovery Audit Contractor programs, improves transparency and accountability, and expands safeguards to Medicaid managed care - helping identify improper payments, recover taxpayer dollars, and prevent fraud and abuse across the system. https://t.co/GNRRsKEBlz

On National Manufacturing Day, we recognize the hardworking men and women who make, build and innovate right here in America. Manufacturing is a cornerstone of our national economy and an important part of the economic strength of Florida and communities throughout Tampa Bay. It creates good-paying jobs, strengthens our supply chains, drives innovation and helps ensure our nation remains competitive and secure. I will always champion Made in America. We need to make more of the products our families, businesses and national defense depend upon right here at home while supporting the American workers and businesses who make it possible. Just as importantly, we must prepare the next generation of American workers. That means ensuring today’s students have access to career and technical education, apprenticeships and hands-on training so they can develop valuable skills, pursue rewarding careers and meet the needs of our growing manufacturing sector. I regularly meet with local manufacturers throughout our community to hear directly from these small business owners about the opportunities they see, the challenges they face and what we can do to help them grow and succeed. I will continue working alongside our manufacturers to find commonsense solutions, strengthen our workforce and create an environment where American manufacturing can thrive. When we make it in America, we strengthen America. Today, we celebrate our manufacturers and the skilled men and women behind them - and recommit ourselves to building, making and innovating more right here at home. #ManufacturingDay #MadeInAmerica #AmericanManufacturing

I enjoyed attending the Pasco Economic Development Council’s Annual Banquet and celebrating the continued economic growth and success we’re seeing throughout Pasco County. It’s exciting to see new opportunities continue to materialize - bringing investment, innovation, and, most importantly, good-paying jobs right here to our community. This progress is a testament to the entrepreneurs, business leaders, educators, workforce partners, and community leaders who are working together to make Pasco an increasingly attractive place to live, work, and do business. Congratulations to the Pasco EDC and all of this year’s honorees. I look forward to continuing to support efforts that strengthen our local economy and create even more opportunities for families throughout Pasco County.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month - a time to stand with the courageous women and men battling breast cancer, celebrate survivors, and remember the loved ones we have lost. Early detection saves lives. I encourage everyone to talk with their health care provider about appropriate screenings and to remind the people they love to do the same. We also recognize the families, caregivers, health care professionals, researchers, and advocates who provide hope and support throughout this journey. Together, we can continue raising awareness, advancing research, and working toward a future where no family has to face breast cancer.

Congratulations to Shanna and Josh Brady of Land O’ Lakes on being selected as a 2026 Angels in Adoption Honoree! Shanna is a Pasco County teacher and Josh is a Pasco County Corrections Officer. I was proud to nominate this remarkable couple, who opened their hearts and home to three children from Florida’s foster care system - Charley, Chloe, and Chevy. Together with their two biological children, Christian and Chandler, their “Brady Bunch” is now a family of seven! Their compassion and commitment remind us of the life-changing difference a loving, permanent home can make! #AngelsinAdoption

I enjoyed spending time with local Veterans at VFW Post 6180 in West Pasco this week. We had a great conversation about the issues impacting them and their families. It’s always a privilege to spend time with those who have served our country -especially when the conversation comes with some delicious tacos! Thank you to everyone at VFW Post 6180 for the warm welcome and great fellowship.

It was an honor to welcome Energy and Commerce Chairman Brett Guthrie to Tampa Bay for an important conversation with community health center leaders from across our region about the vital work they are doing to ensure our neighbors have access to quality, affordable health care. As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Community Health Center Caucus, I’m actively working on a variety of measures to strengthen these critical community resources and ensure they have the support, workforce, and tools they need to continue serving our most vulnerable neighbors. Our discussion took place at a truly unique community health center co-located with Feeding Tampa Bay, bringing health care and hunger-relief services together under one roof. It’s a great example of community partners working together to address the barriers that impact health and well-being - from access to medical care to food insecurity - and helping ensure that no one slips through the cracks. I’m grateful to Chairman Guthrie for joining us and to our local community health center leaders and patients for sharing their experiences, challenges, and ideas for how we can continue working together to improve access to care.

This week, I had the privilege of participating in the Grand Opening of the new Mary W. Sierra Family YMCA in Wesley Chapel! The YMCA has a long tradition of bringing people together, strengthening families, and building healthier, more connected communities. This beautiful new facility will provide even more opportunities for children, seniors, and families throughout Wesley Chapel and the surrounding area to learn, grow, stay active, and connect with one another. Congratulations to everyone whose hard work, vision, and dedication helped make the Mary W. Sierra Family YMCA a reality. I’m excited to see the positive impact this wonderful new community resource will have on local families for generations to come!

Today, on National VFW Day, we recognize the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the generations of brave Americans who have served our nation in conflicts around the world. For more than a century, the VFW has provided fellowship, advocacy and support for Veterans and their families. Here in Tampa Bay, our local VFW Posts remain an important part of our communities - supporting fellow Veterans, honoring those we have lost, mentoring the next generation and continuing their commitment to service long after taking off the uniform. As a longtime advocate for our nation’s heroes, I am grateful for my partnership with our local VFW leaders and members. Their firsthand experiences help inform my work in Congress and strengthen our shared efforts to ensure Veterans receive the benefits, care and recognition they have earned. To every VFW member: thank you for your service to our country and for continuing to serve your fellow Veterans and our communities. God bless you, and God bless America! #NationalVFWDay #VFW #Veterans #ThankYouVeterans #TampaBay

Research has associated the clock change, particularly the loss of an hour of sleep when we spring forward, with increases in heart attacks, traffic accidents, sleep disruption and other negative health consequences." Read more of my latest article in @thewashingtontimes Energy Special Section: https://t.co/0l80mw5XWi

TAMPA, FL - On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) will host House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) for a regional roundtable with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) focused on expanding access to high-quality, affordable health care and ensuring vulnerable patients do not fall through the cracks. The discussion will bring together leaders from community health centers throughout the Tampa Bay region to showcase the innovative work they are doing to deliver high-quality care while keeping services affordable and accessible for the patients and families who need them most. Importantly, the roundtable will give local health care providers and patients an opportunity to bring their real-life experiences directly to one of our nation’s leading health policy makers. Patient stories will help illustrate the challenges families face accessing affordable care and inform a broader discussion about how Congress can strengthen community-based care, address barriers to access, and ensure federal health policy works for patients on the ground. The event will also highlight an innovative partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay that recognizes the important connection between nutrition and health. Through this model, health care and community partners are working together to address patients’ dietary needs and combat food insecurity among vulnerable populations. Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the discussion. WHAT: Regional Federally Qualified Health Center Roundtable on Health Care Affordability and Access WHO: U.S. Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), U.S. Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Federally Qualified Health Center leaders from throughout the Tampa Bay region, Local patients and community partners WHEN:Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 10:00 a.m.